Talk: Japanese Security Legislation and Constitutional Reforms after the Elections: Prime Minister Abe’s Legacy?

In 2015, under Prime Minister Abe’s leadership, the Japanese government enacted controversial new security legislation with the aim to facilitate the country’s role as a ‘pro-active contributor’ to international peace and security. In 2017, Abe’s victory in the Japanese national elections set the conditions for the government to pursue an even bolder agenda. This would include the possibility to engage with a constitutional reform designed to address the constraints imposed on the status and activities of the Japanese military. What is the reform of this clause about? Is the revision of Article 9 going to represent Abe’s political legacy of his tenure? Will he be the Prime Minister to bring the Japanese defence and security paradigm of the post-war era to a new stage?

This seminar engages with the above questions, focusing on the political, legal, and strategic implications unfolding from possible constitutional reforms. The speakers will place the Japanese debate in the wider context of international law and military and strategic studies to offer a broader understanding of the opportunities and challenges that such a reform would bring about. This is a timely and much needed discussion with clear repercussions on Anglo-Japanese defence relations and on the prospects of Japan’s continued contribution to a stable international system.

The event is organised in cooperation with the King’s Japan Programme.

Contributors: Dr Hitoshi Nasu, Dr Alessio Patalano

This event is free but booking is essential. Places can be booked at: http://dajf.org.uk/event/japanese-security-legislation-and-constitutional-reforms-after-the-elections-prime-minister-abes-legacy